PSNI Update On North Belfast Attempted Murder Investigation

A Sudanese man remains in police custody on suspicion of attempted murder following a serious attack in the Kinnaird Avenue area of north Belfast on Monday night. Police say the injured man remains in hospital with serious injuries to his eyes and slash wounds to his back and face. The PSNI has appealed for calm, urged people not to share graphic footage online, and asked anyone with CCTV, dash-cam footage or information to contact police.

Sudanese Man Remains In Custody After North Belfast Attack

A Sudanese man remains in custody this afternoon, Tuesday 9 June 2026, on suspicion of attempted murder following a serious attack in north Belfast.

The incident happened in the Kinnaird Avenue area at around 10.30pm on Monday 8 June.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson provided an update at Police Service of Northern Ireland headquarters in Belfast, confirming that the victim is in hospital with significant injuries.

He said the man suffered serious injuries to his eyes, along with slash-wound injuries to his back and face.

PSNI Praises Bravery Of Members Of The Public

ACC Henderson said police thoughts are with the injured man and his family.

He also acknowledged the bravery of members of the public who intervened during the incident.

He said:

“First and foremost, our thoughts are with the victim and his family. Detectives and specialist officers are supporting them at this difficult time.”

He added that it was important to recognise those who “ran before danger” to help the injured man.

Officers arrived at the scene within minutes of the report. They detained and arrested the suspect and administered first aid before colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service attended.

North Belfast Attempted Murder Investigation Ongoing

The PSNI has said the suspect, a man in his 30s, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.

Police have confirmed they are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with the investigation.

ACC Henderson said:

“I share the public’s revulsion over the brutal nature of this attack which has created concern across Northern Ireland and further afield.”

He also said police understand that there are questions about the nature of the attack.

No Information At This Stage To Suggest Terrorism Link

Police said they have been liaising with senior counter-terrorism officials throughout the day.

ACC Henderson said that, due to the nature of the attack, police have considered all relevant lines of enquiry.

However, he confirmed:

“At this stage we have no information to suggest this was terrorist-related. However, we are still at the early stages of our investigation.”

PSNI Appeals For Calm Across Northern Ireland

Police have appealed for calm following widespread concern and anger across Northern Ireland.

ACC Henderson said the attack has “sent shockwaves through the community” and reassured the public that safety remains the PSNI’s priority.

Police are engaging with local representatives and residents to provide reassurance and support.

ACC Henderson also addressed calls for protest activity across Northern Ireland this evening.

He said police are continuing to monitor the situation and plan accordingly.

He added:

“I understand that last night’s attempted murder will leave people feeling a range of emotions from fear to angry. I appeal for calm today.”

The PSNI said the public can expect to see an increased police presence across Northern Ireland this evening to help support and reassure communities.

Police Urge Public Not To Share Graphic Footage

The PSNI has urged people to be careful about what they view or share online.

Police said sharing footage of the incident could cause further trauma to the injured man’s loved ones and may also impact the ongoing investigation.

ACC Henderson said:

“We understand that there is considerable posting on social media. People have questions and real concerns. But we would ask that the public are mindful of what they view or share online.”

Appeal For Witnesses, CCTV And Dash-Cam Footage

Police are asking anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have captured CCTV or dash-cam footage from the Kinnaird Avenue area, to contact them.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1654 08/06/26.

A report can also be submitted online through the PSNI non-emergency reporting form:

https://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at:

https://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/

Anyone with information, CCTV or dash-cam footage that could assist the north Belfast attempted murder investigation is urged to contact police as soon as possible.

The PSNI has also appealed for calm and asked the public not to share graphic footage of the incident online.